By Dr. John David Smith, President

Welcome to a series of articles exploring the often-unseen realities of life on the mission field. Inherent difficulties and expectations of suffering are always intertwined with the call to global mission. We will draw insights from scripture and the experiences of those who have lived the reality of suffering on the mission field. 

The concept of suffering as a normal part of the Christian life, and particularly in the context of mission, is a recurring theme throughout scripture. The apostle Peter addresses believers as “foreigners” facing trials, reminding them that even amidst suffering, there is “wonderful joy ahead” and that these trials serve to prove the genuineness of their faith, which is more precious than gold. He emphasizes that suffering for doing good is pleasing to God, echoing the example of Christ who suffered for us, leaving us a pattern to follow. This perspective reframes suffering not merely as an unfortunate circumstance, but as a potential pathway to deeper faith and partnership with Christ in His suffering.

Jesus himself spoke of the necessity of death for new life, comparing it to a kernel of wheat that must die to produce a harvest. He also stated that those who cling to their earthly lives will lose them, while those who lose their lives for His sake will save them. This demands a complete commitment, a willingness to embrace hardship for the sake of the mission. Paul exhorted Timothy to “endure suffering along with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus,” highlighting the disciplined and sacrificial nature of this calling, where involvement in civilian affairs can distract from pleasing the one who enlisted them. This military analogy underscores the idea of a focused dedication that may require setting aside personal comforts and desires.

The book of Acts provides numerous historical accounts of the difficulties faced by early Christians and missionaries. The apostles encountered opposition from religious and political authorities, faced imprisonment, threats, and even physical violence like stoning. These experiences illustrate that the advancement of the gospel often occurs in the face of significant adversity. Paul’s own testimony in 2 Timothy details the persecutions and sufferings he endured in various cities, yet he affirms that the Lord rescued him from them all. He further states that “all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted”. These precedents establish a clear expectation that those engaged in spreading the gospel may encounter various forms of opposition and hardship.

BMA Global, a mission organization, explicitly acknowledges the “inherently high levels of risk” involved in the work of Christians and missionaries, citing examples such as crime, politics, terrorism, health issues, and natural disasters. Our theology of risk is rooted in the Great Commission and the New Testament method of missions, which inherently involves going into challenging contexts. They point to Jesus’ suffering as an example and the expectation for followers of Christ. The “incarnational life,” as described by BMA Global, involves self-denial and a commitment to exalting God, potentially even leading to death. We acknowledge the legacy of missionaries who have faced death, health issues, imprisonment, and impoverished conditions for the sake of the gospel.

While acknowledging the risks, BMA Global emphasizes the urgency of the mission and the need to not back down from spreading the gospel. Scripture presents examples of both fleeing and facing persecution, suggesting that the decision is often a matter of discernment and faith based on the specific circumstances. The apostles sometimes fled to continue their ministry elsewhere, while at other times they remained in dangerous situations because of the need for people to hear the gospel. BMA Global aims to provide missionaries with the best possible risk assessments to inform their decisions.

In conclusion, the sources paint a consistent picture of the mission field as an arena where difficulties and suffering are often normative. These challenges can manifest in various forms, ranging from external opposition and persecution to internal struggles and the sacrifice of personal comforts. However, within this framework, there is also the promise of God’s presence and the potential for spiritual growth and eternal reward. Understanding this inherent aspect of the mission is crucial for those who are considering or currently engaged in this vital work. The contributions from BMA Global missionaries in following weeks will delve deeper into specific experiences of difficulties which serve to remind us that the gospel always advances in a context of suffering.